Traditional Japanese inns dominate the hotel scene in Minakami, offering visitors an authentic hot spring experience. Each location specializes in natural thermal baths with mountain views.
I love Takaragawa Onsen Ousenkaku for its stunning riverside setting and outdoor baths surrounded by forest. My favorite choice for history buffs is Houshi Onsen Chojukan, housed in a beautifully preserved wooden building from Japan’s Meiji era.
For multiple bathing options, Tatsumikan and Ryuudo stand out with their variety of indoor and outdoor hot springs. Hotel Sunbird works well for travelers wanting modern comforts while still enjoying onsen culture.
Keep in mind that some properties maintain traditional policies regarding tattoos. Let’s explore the best places to stay in Minakami.
Good To Know
- Takaragawa Onsen Ousenkaku offers highly-rated accommodations with natural hot spring baths, a free shuttle service, and proximity to Hodaigi Ski Resort.
- Houshi Onsen Chojukan is a historic ryokan known for its scenic location, traditional Japanese-style rooms, and delicious cuisine.
- Tatsumikan features 5 indoor/outdoor hot-spring baths, Japanese-style accommodations, and traditional multi-course meals, earning a 9.2 rating.
- Ryuudo, a traditional ryokan, is praised for its variety and quality of hot baths, as well as its friendly staff.
- Hotel Sunbird, a 3-star ryokan, offers modern amenities, eleven private outdoor baths, and proximity to various outdoor activities.
Takaragawa Onsen Ousenkaku
Nestled in the picturesque town of Minakami, Gunma, Takaragawa Onsen Ousenkaku is a traditional ryokan that boasts an exceptional location along the Takaragawa River.
This highly-rated hotel, with a 9.2/10 score based on over 1,200 reviews, offers guests a serene Japanese experience.
Accommodation options include rooms with either shared or private bathrooms, all featuring tatami flooring, futon bedding, and yukata robes.
Theres some good the hotel’s natural hot spring baths and enjoy a range of amenities, such as a free shuttle service, a garden, and a souvenir shop.
The ryokan is also just a 10-minute drive from the Hodaigi Ski Resort, making it an ideal base for winter sports enthusiasts.
With its attentive staff, delicious meals, and enchanting ambiance, Takaragawa Onsen Ousenkaku provides a truly memorable stay.
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Houshi Onsen Chojukan
Located along the serene Houshi River, Houshi Onsen Chojukan is a traditional Japanese ryokan that offers a tranquil escape in Minakami, Gunma. Rated 9.1/10 for its scenic location, the property features a historic wooden building over a century old, providing a truly immersive experience.
Guests can enjoy Japanese-style rooms with tatami flooring, futon bedding, and access to shared bathing facilities. Praised for its delicious traditional cuisine, Houshi Onsen Chojukan’s dining experience is a highlight.
With an overall rating of 9.3/10, the ryokan is lauded for its serene atmosphere, friendly staff, and beautiful onsen baths. However, guests with tattoos may face restrictions, and the nearest ATM is 7km away, so planning ahead is advised.
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Tatsumikan
Tatsumikan is a traditional Japanese ryokan situated in Gunma’s Minakami region. Boasting a 9.2 rating from 75 reviews, this ryokan offers guests an authentic experience with its 5 indoor/outdoor hot-spring baths, Japanese-style accommodations, and free shuttle service.
Guests praise the staff’s kindness and helpfulness, while the facilities, cleanliness, comfort, and value for money all earn high ratings. Amenities include free parking, non-smoking rooms, a spa, restaurants, and a range of activities.
The ryokan’s rooms feature tatami floors, futon bedding, and private bathrooms, accommodating up to 5 guests. Visitors can enjoy traditional multi-course meals and Japanese set-menu breakfasts on-site.
Policies include early check-in and late check-out, with some restrictions around tattoos and smoking.
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Ryuudo
Ryuudo is a traditional Japanese ryokan nestled in Gunma’s Minakami region, boasting a remarkable 9.2 rating from 25 reviews.
This ryokan offers 22 rooms with private hot spring baths, including 18 types of outdoor baths available for private use. Guests praise the variety and quality of the hot baths, as well as the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff.
Notable amenities include free private parking, non-smoking rooms, and a 24-hour front desk. Dining options feature local ingredients, including the renowned Jyoshu Black Wagyu beef, served in private dining spaces.
However, guests with tattoos may face restrictions in public areas, and children aren’t allowed.
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Hotel Sunbird
Hotel Sunbird, a 3-star ryokan, sits nestled in the scenic Minakami region of Gunma Prefecture.
This Japanese-style inn offers 14 well-appointed guest rooms with mountain views, air conditioning, and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy the hotel’s free Wi-Fi, free parking, and eleven private outdoor baths.
For activities, the area provides ample opportunities for skiing, hiking, cycling, and canoeing. Nearby attractions include the renowned Takaragawa Onsen and beautiful lakes.
The property serves a traditional Japanese kaiseki dinner in-room for guests with outdoor baths, though no meals are served after 8 PM. Shuttle service is available from nearby train stations.
However, Hotel Sunbird enforces strict policies, such as no children and restrictions for guests with tattoos in public bathing areas.
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The Sum Up
Minakami offers a range of excellent onsen hotels for visitors. Takaragawa Onsen Ousenkaku, Houshi Onsen Chojukan, Tatsumikan, Ryuudo, and Hotel Sunbird provide comfortable accommodations and access to natural hot springs. Travelers can choose from these top-rated options to enjoy the relaxing and rejuvenating atmosphere of Minakami’s onsen culture.